There has been mixed reaction from industry this afternoon to Budget 2022 which was announced earlier today by Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe.
The Restaurants Association of Ireland says it is deeply concerned over the 9 per cent VAT rate for the hospitality sector which will increase next September.
Spokesperson Adrian Cummins says its members will seek a meeting with the finance minister to discuss the matter further.
Meanwhile, Nat O’Connor, policy specialist at Age Action says the €5 per week increase in the state pension doesn’t go far enough.
Free contraception for young women has been welcomed though.
The move is part of a €31 million dedicated women's health package which allows access to free contraception for those aged between 17 and 25 years.
Green Party health spokesperson Neasa Hourigan says it's a first step in reducing the risk of crisis pregnancy.
Feljin Jose of the Dublin Commuter Coalition highlighted how the halving of public transport costs for young people is a positive development.
But, according to smokers rights group, Forest Ireland, "the Government shouldn't use the budget to bully people into giving up smoking".
50 cent has been added to the price of a 20 pack of cigarettes.
Spokesperson, John Mallon says the move will force people to buy cigarettes on the black market.
